Senators warily eye transfer of $397M to Secret Service amid WH ballroom construction
Summary
The Trump administration transferred nearly $400 million from a $1.2 billion Secret Service budget to accounts for White House security, raising questions about whether taxpayer money will fund the new White House ballroom. Officials say the money is for security upgrades, but some senators are concerned about potential overlap with the ballroom’s construction, which President Trump says will be privately funded.Key Facts
- About $397 million was moved into Secret Service accounts for White House security.
- The funds come from a $1.2 billion allocation passed by Congress last year.
- $11 million went to "Operations and Support," and over $385 million to "Procurement, Construction and Improvements."
- The money transfer happened in two rounds on June 12 and June 15, 2026.
- Congress specified the funds were for Secret Service needs like personnel, training, and technology, not White House improvements.
- Senators from both parties worry taxpayer money might be used for the White House ballroom.
- A senior official said money will pay for "necessary security upgrades," including visitor screening centers and campus protection.
- President Trump says the ballroom construction costs will be covered by private donations.
- Estimates suggest the ballroom may cost over $600 million, higher than previously stated.
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